In a televised spectacle marred by critique, Abbie Stockard from Alabama claimed the Miss America 2025 title on January 5 amidst significant production backlash.
Abbie Stockard, 22, a nursing student and cheerleader, was declared the winner of Miss America 2025 after a contentious event characterized by viewers and critics as needing substantial improvement, the US Sun reported.
The competition unfolded at the Walt Disney Theater in Orlando, where Stockard competed against 51 other participants from across the United States. Contestants came from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Over two days, these competitors impressed the judges in various categories, eventually leading to the selection of eleven finalists.
Abbie Stockard’s performances in evening gown, talent, fitness, and Hot Topic segments set her apart from her peers. Her talent presentation featured a dance to Lauren Daigle's "You Say," a 2018 hit that showcased her impressive interpretative skills.
Stockard drew motivation from her mother, who worked several jobs to support their family, and from a best friend battling cystic fibrosis, which profoundly influenced her dedication and emotional depth throughout the competition.
After previous winner Madison Marsh, the first active duty Air Force Officer to win, crowned her, Stockard shared her disbelief and joy. "This is insane. I don't know what I did to deserve this," she remarked, overwhelmed by her achievement.
Meanwhile, the new Miss America 2025 received a $50,000 prize, which she plans to use to support her future aspirations in pediatrics. Hoping to make a meaningful difference, Stockard’s career path is clear as she prepares to embark on a healthcare journey focused on child medical care.
Furthermore, viewers watched the event through a live stream accessible via YouTube and PageantVision.com, reaching a wide digital audience. Nevertheless, this did not shield the event from widespread criticism about its overall execution.
Despite the pageant's intent to showcase talent and foster competition, many voiced concerns about the lower production values. Descriptions ranged from "cringe" to assertions that the event needed an overhaul. One critic pointedly said, "Miss America used to be a prime TV event. Now I have to search through YouTube to find it," exemplifying the sentiment of long-time pageant followers disappointed by the changes.
Another significant remark came from a usual critic who posts yearly about the decline of the pageant:
It's time for my annual 'they destroyed Miss America' post. This isn't directed at the girls; they are all incredible and talented. But off the bat, this production is awful and, honestly, cringe.
Others echoed this dissatisfaction, noting, "Congrats, Miss Alabama, for winning Miss America, but I cannot keep repeating how this organization is broken and needs an overhaul. The significant reduction in production quality does a disservice to these great women."
Amid the focus on criticism, it is also important to recognize the achievements of the runners-up. Miss Texas Annette Addo-Yobo, Miss Tennessee Carley Vogel, and Miss Florida 2024 Casana Fink, along with Miss Ohio 2024 Stephanie Finoti, completed the top five. Fink received a modest $3,000 scholarship for her placement.
The recognition of Stockard and her fellow finalists in this 97th edition of the pageant further highlights a critical juncture for this traditional event, suggesting that its future may either adapt to modern times or continue facing viewer opposition.
As the digital reminiscence of previous winners, like Madison Marsh, continues to inspire new contestants, the Miss America pageant remains a complex blend of heritage and contemporary challenge. A social media post paid tribute to Marsh, saying: "Your incredible achievements go beyond beauty and grace. You are a symbol of what’s possible when courage, determination, and service come together," thus encapsulating the ongoing respect for those who redefine norms and inspire leadership.
